float glass

American  

noun

1. extremely smooth, nearly distortion-free plate glass manufactured by pouring molten glass onto a surface of molten tin.

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float glass British  

noun

1. a type of flat polished transparent glass made by allowing the molten glass to harden as it floats on liquid of higher density

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Etymology

Origin of float glass

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

Fuyao also has invested about $250 million in a float glass plant in Illinois that employs about 250 workers.

From Reuters • Oct. 6, 2016

The agreement is the E.P.A.’s first settlement involving a manufacturer of so-called flat glass, also known as float glass, which is used in windows for office buildings and homes, as well as in automobile windshields.

From New York Times • Sep. 29, 2015

Last week Alastair Pilkington explained his "float glass" process in the New Scientist.

From Time Magazine Archive

Many American businessmen contend, with some justification, that the Japanese dump not only TV sets but also steel, textiles, float glass and radio tuners.

From Time Magazine Archive

Pilkington's new "float glass" process has not only brought dramatic change to an ancient industry but restored some glitter to Britain's industrial reputation.

From Time Magazine Archive